Patrolman Shea was killed in a massive explosion at a fireworks display at Madison Square Park in which 12 people were killed and over 70 were injured.

Patrolman Shea was patrolling the crowd at a fireworks display in Madison Square when one of the fireworks misfired. The misfire ignited a large pile of fireworks and caused the explosion. A large piece of metal struck Patrolman Shea in the head, which fractured his skull and killed him.

Patrolman Shea had served with the New York City Police Department for four years. He was 34 years old.

Ptl Shea, you were assigned to a fireworks detail, in todays NYPD that is and probably was in your day an overall enjoyable assignment. You are an example of how coming into work on our job regardless of the job or detail we are on may be our last. You have passed but you will never be forgotten. We pray for you and all the others who also passed. Rest in Peace Dennis.